Sharla Ellis celebrating Fairway Home Mortgage being named a Top Workplace 2026, six years in a row, highlighting company culture and leadership.

Top Workplaces 2026: Why Where You Work Matters More Than Ever

There are moments in business that make you pause.

Not because of numbers.
Not because of production.

But because of people.

And this week was one of those moments.

Fairway Home Mortgage has once again been named a USA TODAY Top Workplace—six years in a row.

And I have to tell you…

👉 I’m not surprised!

 

It Starts at the Top

Culture doesn’t happen by accident.

It’s created—intentionally—by leadership.

Steve Jacobson and the leadership team at Fairway have built something that feels different.

Not just a company…

👉 but a place where people are supported, encouraged, and empowered to grow.

And that matters more than ever in today’s world.

 

Why This Matters (Beyond the Award)

Awards are wonderful.

But what they represent is what really matters.

At Fairway, we talk a lot about values:

  • Doing the right thing
  • Supporting each other
  • Creating amazing experiences for our clients and referral partners

And those aren’t just words.

They show up in how we do business every single day.

 

The Ripple Effect

When you’re part of an organization that truly supports you…

👉 you show up differently.

You listen more.
You care more.
You go the extra mile—because you can.

And that directly impacts:

  • the families we help
  • the buyers navigating big decisions
  • the agents we partner with every day

It allows us to create experiences that feel:
smooth
thoughtful
and genuinely supportive

 

A Personal Reflection

After nearly four decades in this industry, I’ve seen a lot.

And I can honestly say…

👉 where you work matters.

I’ve been with Fairway for 7 years now, and there’s a reason I love being here.

Because it’s not just about production.

It’s about:

  • people
  • purpose
  • being supported 1000% and doing meaningful work

 

A Thought for You

Whether you’re in real estate, lending, or any profession…

👉 the environment you choose matters.

The people you surround yourself with matter.

And when you’re in the right place?

You don’t just grow.

👉 You help others grow too.

 

Final Thought

I’m incredibly grateful to be part of a company that lives its values and supports us in doing our best work.

And even more grateful for the opportunity that creates … to serve our clients and partners at a level they truly deserve.

Congratulations, Fairway!

Here’s to great teams, strong leadership, and doing work that matters. 💛

– SE

Let's Connect

You can count on us to provide great loan options and rates, while offering some of the fastest turn times in the industry. Our goal is to act as trusted advisors, providing highly personalized service, helping our borrowers and sources through every step of the loan process – from application to closing and beyond. We have always believed that each client and each loan are precious, and we are fortunate to have the continued support of many satisfied clients. We will work hard to navigate successfully and efficiently through the current environment, as we help a regulated and complicated process seem just a little easier. We look forward to earning your business and having you as one of our “raving fans”! Let’s connect!

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